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Do symptoms like sinus pressure, stuffy and runny nose, and sneezing point to maxillary sinusitis?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Two weeks back, I got my right upper wisdom tooth and second molar extracted. Yesterday, my doctor suggested a panoramic dental X-ray to check my lower wisdom tooth. However, the X-ray showed an abnormality in my right maxillary sinus. Also, I have been experiencing sinus pressure, stuffy and runny nose, and sneezing after the extraction. My sinus complaints also worsen during the allergy season. Kindly advise.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and would be happy to help. I have reviewed the attachments that you have shared (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). There is an opacity in the maxillary sinus. How many days post-extraction was the X-ray taken? Also, did you have facial puffiness, fever, a nasal discharge, or a discharge from the region of the extracted tooth? Kindly revert with answers to the above questions. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the response. The X-ray was taken about two weeks after the upper teeth extraction. The stuffiness started a few days after the extraction. However, there is no discharge.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Sometimes, the upper molars and premolars share their roots with the maxillary sinus floor. After the teeth extraction, there would have been an inflammation or infection at the root, which could have spread to the maxillary sinus. Therefore, there is an opacity in the sinus due to the secretions. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the response. Are my symptoms due to inflammation? How long does it take to subside? As I suffer from chronic sinus issues, I am worried. Also, is it not something serious like a polyp or a tumor? Kindly advise.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

There is nothing to worry about. Based on your symptoms, it is maxillary sinusitis. The symptoms will subside if you are already using a course of antibiotics and analgesics. A runny nose is due to allergic rhinitis. I suggest the below treatment plan: 1. Wear a mask whenever you go out to avoid getting exposed to dust. 2. Do steam inhalation twice a day. 3. A steroid nasal spray one puff in the morning and at night. 4. An antihistamine tablet at night. 5. Avoid citrus fruits, curd, and bananas. I suggest you consult a specialist doctor, talk to him or her, and start the above treatment plan. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 18, 2022
Reviewed AtJanuary 2, 2024

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